FOLSOM—El Dorado Musical Theatre is kicking off the new year with a burst of rock & roll, teenage romance, and vintage comedy as its next Main Stage production,Bye Bye Birdie, opens January 24 at Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom. This lively, G-rated musical comedy is set to bring classic Broadway charm to the stage, with a talented cast of young performers and a show that celebrates the spirit of 1950s small-town America.
Originally debuting on Broadway in 1960,Bye Bye Birdiewas a sensation in its time—introducing audiences to the unforgettable roles of Albert, Rosie, and teen idol Conrad Birdie. The original production starred Dick Van Dyke and Chita Rivera and played for over 600 performances. Now, more than six decades later, its story still resonates with audiences of all ages, blending humor, heart, and a nostalgic nod to the birth of American pop culture.
EDMT’s production features a vibrant cast of performers ages 8 to 20, all bringing new life to the story of Conrad Birdie, a rock superstar who’s been drafted into the U.S. Army. Before he ships out, he agrees to give one lucky fan a farewell kiss live on television.
That fan is Kim MacAfee, an All-American girl from Sweet Apple, Ohio—and her world is about to turn upside down. What unfolds is a comical clash of generations, media frenzy, teen drama, and toe-tapping musical numbers that have madeBye Bye Birdiea staple in musical theater history.
Directed by Kat DeLapp with choreography by Maddie Jantzen and vocal direction by Scott Rivers, the show features costume design by Karen McConnell and is produced by Zoi Jones. Together, the team has crafted a colorful, fast-paced, and engaging production that captures the era’s signature energy and humor.
The score, composed by Charles Strouse with lyrics by Lee Adams, includes a lineup of musical theater favorites that showcase both solo talents and large ensemble numbers. Songs like “Put On a Happy Face,” “One Last Kiss,” “A Lot of Livin’ to Do,” “Kids,” and “The Telephone Hour” are performed with enthusiasm and style, backed by polished choreography and dynamic stage direction. The show’s quick pacing and clever dialogue also give plenty of comedic moments to supporting roles, making it a true ensemble piece with something for everyone.
EDMT’s youth cast continues to raise the bar with each production, andBye Bye Birdieis no exception. Known throughout the region for delivering professional-quality performances, the organization blends talent development with high production values, offering performers an opportunity to shine while giving audiences a top-tier theatrical experience.
Performances ofBye Bye Birdiewill take place on Harris Center’s Stage One beginningSaturday, January 24, with two opening shows at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. The run continues with performances onSunday, January 25 at 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., followed byThursday, January 29 at 7:00 p.m.,Friday, January 30 at 7:00 p.m., andSaturday, January 31 at 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.In addition to the public shows, EDMT will also present special 10:00 a.m. school performances on January 29 and 30.
Bye Bye Birdieis presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Tams-Witmark LLC.
Tickets for the public performances are on sale now through the Harris Center box office. For showtimes and availability, visitTHE HARRIS CENTER EVENT PAGE HERE.
Whether you’re a longtime musical fan or new to the theater, this production promises to bring laughter, nostalgia, and a great night out in Folsom. Don’t miss the chance to see EDMT’s rising stars take on this classic Broadway hit with all the charm and spirit that has keptBye Bye Birdiealive for generations.
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